alumni

Alumni are graduates or former students of a particular school, college, or university who maintain some level of ongoing association with the institution. The term originates from Latin, with singular forms alumnus (male) and alumna (female) and plural forms alumni (used for mixed or male groups) and alumnae (female groups). In contemporary usage, alumni is often employed as a gender-neutral plural.

Institutions commonly organize alumni networks or associations to sustain ties with former students. These organizations may coordinate reunions, publish magazines or newsletters, and offer mentoring, career services, and networking opportunities. Alumni contributions—whether financial, professional, or in-kind—often support fundraising campaigns, scholarships, facilities, and program development. Active alumni networks can enhance an institution’s reputation and influence, while providing members with ongoing benefits and a sense of identity.

Linguistically, alumnus and alumna are the traditional singular forms, used for a single graduate of a specific institution. Alumni or alumnae denote groups of graduates, with alumnae used for feminine plural in contexts that preserve the Latin-based terminology. Some institutions and publications use alumni as a universal plural, while others retain distinct alumnae for female graduates.

Global use of the term reflects the widespread practice of universities and colleges to cultivate lifelong connections with former students. Alumni communities often cross generations and disciplines, contributing to both personal networks and institutional vitality.